Recommended by Morey Norkin

Wendy Vogel has created a deeply moving counterpoint between a conservative pastor’s sermon and his daughter’s personal story. The hypocrisy and hints of regret from the father are weighed against the pain and strength of the daughter. Brilliantly constructed, this piece cries out to be staged.

In this psychological thriller, Evan Baughfman provides an intriguing theory regarding the unsolved 1947 murder of Elizabeth Short, better known as the Black Dahlia. Fringe filmmakers coordinate with the government to manipulate behavior. Beyond the gruesome scene that plays out, we are forced to consider to what extent this is actually happening to us. Thought provoking and a first-rate horror story to boot.

In this powerful monologue, cosplayer Valerie issues a clarion call that goes well beyond the imagined convention attendees. It is a call to all girls and women to stand together and fight back. And to all boys and men to grow up. I imagine the call and response between Valerie and the audience would be an overwhelming moment. Terrific!

Moo shu pork is truly life changing! And for parents of a difficult young teen, it’s the answer to a prayer. Audiences will be smiling and nodding in recognition of this family scenario. And then they’ll probably hurry for their favorite Chinese takeout. Delightful!

This is a one-minute beauty! Jacquie Floyd-Priskorn turns the tables on the well-known sleeping beauty theme. What a riot!

The title alone tells you this will be a tough read. The story is tragic, hopeful, raw, and deeply human. The grief being explored is palpable. Ultimately, how does one cope? Rise up. Unhinge. Write a beautiful play.

The only “impossible” I know is not laughing all the way through this hysterical short from Kate Danley. A missed cue by a totally clueless community theatre actor leads to some wild improvisation. The scenario is truly an actor’s nightmare but what a delight for audiences.

I try to put myself in the unseen Dr. Gary’s position to figure out how to counsel Billie as he faces relationship issues with Minky, a sock monkey, who is having an affair with a corgi. And I have to laugh. And you will too throughout this zany, yet relatable story. The visual aspect combined with Rachael Carne’s sure fire wit make this a pure delight.

An exhilaratingly fast-paced, yet cautionary tale of the rise and fall of Pithole, PA. Matthew Allen Craig’s rapid fire narrative mirrors the speed with which greedy oil barons siphoned off natural resources and left the town high and dry. This piece could be presented simply as a reader’s theater or with the added physicality of a full production. However it is staged, the pace is sure to blow audiences away.

I couldn’t resist the title, and just as I hoped, John Busser provides one classic joke after another! Making a bargain with the devil has never been funnier. I would take my hat off to John Busser, but then my own follicular challenge might make me a target for ze Devil! A wonderful opportunity for literally over the top performances!